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Hats off to Hugh

THE PARTY Matthew and Iris Strauss opened up their art-filled home, Rancho del Arte, to host a lavish party marking the 30th anniversary of Hugh M. Davies taking the helm at MCASD. THE SCENE The Strausses gave a rousing congratulatory speech, citing Davies’ influence on their art purchases (including priceless works by painter Gerhard Richter), many of them made during MCASD’s acclaimed collectors’ trips. Guests enjoyed a private viewing of the laudable Strauss collection, minus a few pieces currently on loan to USD. As partygoers wandered between indoors and out, partaking of sushi, lobster rolls and a quesadilla bar, a gorgeous full moon hung in the sky. It was the perfect backdrop to a festive evening, rich in art talk and fondly recounted Davies stories. THE HIGHLIGHTS Throughout his tenure at the La Jolla contemporary art museum, the tenacious Davies has not only grown the endowment dramatically, but has also shone a light on Latin American art and the light and space movement. When Davies first arrived, MCASD clocked in at 10,000 square feet of space. Today, it boasts 32,000 square feet across its campuses in La Jolla and downtown. No small feat. To Hugh! Photography by Sara Brooks and Brian Malarkey